Evoli Roofing (Redesign)

Fiberglass vs Asphalt shingles: Which is Best?

Fiberglass vs Asphalt shingles

If you are looking for a new roof you might have heard of new popular asphalt shingles. These new shingles are more dependable, affordable, long long-lasting and they‘ve even become more eco-friendly. 

All these reasons make them a great roofing material, and most homeowners faced with roof repair or replacement choose shingles. Once you’ve decided to use roof shingles to boost your home’s curb appeal and keep it safe, you’ll need to decide what kind to install.

Once you decide on asphalt, you’ll have to compare organic asphalt vs fiberglass shingles, and that’s where it’s easy for many homeowners to slip up. Although it might seem like a no-brainer, there are differences between the two constructions. You might pass over the best roof shingles for your house if you’re not diligent.

What are Asphalt Shingles ?

Asphalt Shingles

Asphalt shingles are made from paper material and then layered with ceramic granules. These shingles can last from 25 years depending upon the quality of installation, maintenance and climate. These shingles are more affordable and offer a wide range of variety.

Asphalt Shingles installation process

  1. Remove the old roofing material.
  2. Clean the surface of the roof and remove any debris.
  3. Install the new roofing material.
  4. Seal the seams with roofing tar or sealant.
  5. Install roofing nails or staples.
  6. Apply a coat of roofing asphalt to seal the shingles.

Cost of Asphalt Shingles in Maryland

  • These range from $2.50 to $3.75 per square foot in Maryland.
  • They are famous because of their low price and good quality.

Durability

One of the main factors between asphalt shingles and fiberglass shingles is durability. It’s much thicker and more flexible than fiberglass which makes it stand against the hard weather conditions of maryland.

Pros And Cons of Asphalt Shingles

Pros of Asphalt Shingles

Good for cold climate : Asphalt shingles are more reliable in cold weather because fiberglass becomes so cold that there is a chance of cracking, splintering and other damage. Asphalt shingles can handle freezing temperature much batter and have high wind resistance.
Cheap : Asphalt shingles are cheaper than fiberglass and has more life. if properly maintained it can live 20 years or more.

Cons of Asphalt Shingles

Fire Damage : Organic paper bases of asphalt shingles are not fire-resistant like fiberglass shingles. They’ll usually have a lower fire class rating out of the box than fiberglass roof.

Pros to Wrapping : The paper backing on organic shingles absorbs moisture unlike fiberglass, so you’ll have more issues with warping. Moisture absorption may also contribute to faster algae, fungus, and mold growth. There are shingles designed to limit organic growth if that’s a concern for your home.

Water absorption : Asphalt shingles absorb more water which can lead to curtains problems like mold growth on your roof. Therefore you have to inspect your roof regularly to check for any singh of water damage.

What are fiberglass shingles ?

Fiberglass roof shingles are the same as asphalt shingles but have little difference in that they have a sandwich of fiberglass matting with asphalt granules. They are made of less asphalt granules than asphalt shingles which make them much lighter.

Fiberglass Installation Process

  • Remove the old roofing material.
  • Clean the surface of the roof and remove any debris.
  • Install the new roofing material.
  • Seal the seams with roofing tar or sealant.
  • Install roofing nails or staples.
  • Apply a coat of roofing asphalt to seal the shingles

Cost of Fiberglass shingles in Maryland

  • These range from $4.50 to $10 per square foot in Maryland.
  • They are famous because of there resistance against fire.

Durability

One of the main factors between asphalt shingles and fiberglass shingles is durability. Despite of its light weight fiberglass shingles are tough usually last from 15 to 20 years. It wouldn’t change shape or dry out.

Pros and Cons of Fiberglass Shingles

Pros of Fiberglass Shingles

Heat Resistance: Fiberglass shingles have a Class A fire rating, making them the best roof shingles in high-heat climates. Like organic asphalt, there are other treatments you can do to the roof to increase fire resistance, but fiberglass in shingles will offer better performance right out of the package.

Increased insulation: The layer of glass fiber increases the heat resistance of these shingles, giving them a slightly better insulating factor for your home.


Moisture resistance: The fiberglass layer provides additional protection over the paper-based material, sealing your home more effectively from moisture. This can be especially helpful in Edmonton and Calgary climates to protect your home from rain, snow and ice.

Cons of Fiberglass Shingles

Wind: Although being thinner and lighter can be an advantage, it also means that fiberglass shingles are more likely to blow off in severe wind or during a storm. Product choice is very important because as mentioned under innovation there are some products that have improved their wind and storm resistance.

Cold: The increased amount of asphalt in organic shingles makes them more durable and able to stand up to cold climates, while extreme low temperatures can make the fiberglass brittle. This can make it sensitive to install or repair roofs when the weather is cold.

Fiberglass vs Asphalt

Features Asphalt Shingles Fiberglass Shingles
Base Material
Organic mat (cellulose or paper)
Fiberglass mat
Weight
Heavier
Lighter
Durability
More durable overall, especially in extreme cold (freezing temperatures) and high winds
Less durable in cold climates, prone to cracking/splitting
Climate
Good for all climates
Best for mild climates, hot climates, and areas with fire risk
Cost
Less expensive
More expensive
Lifespan
15-30 years
20-50 years
Installation
Easier to install
Requires more care during installation due to lighter weight
Appearance
Wide variety of styles and colors
Similar appearance to asphalt shingle

When to choose Asphalt Shingles ?

  • When you live in cold weather areas with below zero temperature.
  • You live in windy areas
  • You are looking for a pocket friendly roof.

When to choose fiberglass shingles ?

  • You live in mild or higher temperature areas
  • You are concerned about fire resistance
  • You want a long lasting roof for 20 to 25 years.

Why Choose Evoli Roofing

When it comes to your roofing needs, Evoli Roofing should be your top choice in DC, Maryland, and Virginia.

With a team of highly skilled professionals and years of experience in the industry, we have the expertise to handle any roofing project. We are committed to using only the highest quality materials to ensure that your roof is built to last.

Our reputation for reliability is unmatched, as we consistently deliver projects on time and within budget. Customer satisfaction is our priority, and we strive to exceed your expectations at every step. 

As a licensed and insured roofing company, we prioritize your peace of mind. Trust Evoli Roofing for a roofing experience that combines expertise, quality, reliability, and customer satisfaction.

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